Let’s bust a myth right out of the gate: UTIs (urinary tract infections) are not considered contagious in the way colds or the flu are. You can’t “catch” a UTI from someone like you would a virus—but there are some important caveats.
What Actually Causes a UTI?
UTIs are caused when bacteria (most commonly E. coli) enter the urinary tract—usually from the skin around the anus or vagina. This can happen from:
- Wiping the wrong way
- Sexual activity
- Wearing tight or unbreathable clothing
- Holding your pee too long
- Not peeing after sex
So…Can Someone Else Give Me a UTI?
Not directly. UTIs aren’t spread person-to-person through casual contact. However, sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, which may lead to a UTI.
If your partner has poor hygiene or has a UTI themselves, there is a greater risk of transferring bacteria—even though it’s not technically “contagious.”
Are UTIs Sexually Transmitted?
Nope. A UTI is not an STI. But the friction of sex, new partners, or even switching from vaginal to anal penetration without cleaning in between can up your odds of getting one.
Fun fact: The term “honeymoon cystitis” was coined because people often get UTIs after having a lot of sex in a short time.
How to Lower Your Risk (And Keep It That Way)
- 🚽 Always pee after sex
- 🧼 Use unscented, gentle washes—no douches or wipes with fragrance!
- 💧 Drink water before and after sex
- 💊 Consider taking D-Mannose or a probiotic (try Uqora or Love Wellness)
- 🩲 Wear breathable cotton underwear
OTC Relief Options
- AZO Urinary Pain Relief: Helps with burning sensation
- Cystex: Antibacterial plus pain relief
- D-Mannose: Can help flush bacteria before it becomes a full UTI
TL;DR
UTIs are not contagious in the traditional sense, but sex can definitely increase your risk. If you’re prone to UTIs, take a few precautions and stock up on your go-to relief products.
*Sources: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, NIH*